Kennedy Grace Ruff was born in Portland Oregon on June 29th, 2016 to Shawn and Jyndia Ruff. She arrived in her own perfect timing- nearly two weeks late (a characteristic she received from her mommy). Our sweet baby girl danced into the loving arms of Jesus on Friday, December 30th 2016.
To all who knew her, she was full of life and love. Her spirit was infectious and she truly brought joy to all who met her. In her short life, she moved to MT from Portland at just three weeks old demonstrating how content she was to be on the go. She travelled across the country to meet her family and friends and made weekend trips to visit grandparents; often sleeping the entire drive of three or more hours.
Her beautiful smile and genuine giggle brightened everyone’s world including perfect strangers. Having only lived in Helena for 3 months she was already a celebrity around town. She attended most Capital High School sporting events to spend time with her daddy. She could easily be spotted with her pink headphones and binky. Kennedy’s personality emerged early. Her face had an expression for all things: surprise, concern, giddy happiness, wheels turning curiosity and adventure. She was a mobile little one always wanting to learn the next skill. She was content in nearly all situations and loved being outside.
Kennedy was friends with everyone. She would hold out her hands to be picked up with the biggest smile that would fill one’s heart with joyous love. She was loved fiercely by her family and friends. It was hard not to love her squishy cheeks and button nose.
Though Kennedy’s life was short, her impact has left a legacy. Her family and friends look forward to the day they can see her and play with her again. No doubt she has already introduced herself to family and friends who have gone before her. We love you little girl.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
4:00 p.m.
Saturday January 14, 2017
Gateway Center
1710 National Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Following the service
Saturday January 14, 2017
Gateway Center
1710 National Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
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DADDY says
To my baby girl. You truly are a miracle from the day you were conceived in your mommy’s womb. I never dreamed I could love something so much. The first day we brought you home you shot poop all over me and I laughed, cried, and screamed at the same time! I miss you babe, so many fond memories and I want you to know you are loved and missed beyond the capacity for understanding. Your beautiful face and your incredible personality are forever ingrained in my mind. You in your short time on this earth touched so many lives with your pink headphones and charming but beautiful personality. Sweetie this is definitely not a letter a daddy should be writing, i’m supposed to protect you in your life but I now know you are safe in the loving arms of our Father, and His grace is more than sufficient. I miss kissing your sweet little forehead, I miss your woo woo giggle. I love you so much baby K and am counting with sweet anticipation until the day I can have you show me around your new and wonderful home. Jesus love you and the Heavenly Father protect you. I LOVE YOU!
p.s. look after your mom would you. She crazy misses you and loves you unconditionally and forever. God Bless you little one. Again, all my love
Mikal Mihelish says
Kennedy Grace, the amount of joy you brought to not only myself, but everyone who got the chance to meet you was immeasurable. I didn’t know someone of six months could make me laugh so hard. Your adorable chunky cheeks and cute little outfits make me smile whenever I think of you. My favorite look of yours was when you raised one eyebrow and looked at me like you really thought I was crazy! I am going to miss playing with you, cuddling with you while we watch many sports together, and hearing the crazy sounds and giggles come out of your mouth. I truly look forward to the day I get to see your beautiful face again. This is a hard time for all of us, but I know you are looking down at us all, protecting us, and that is comforting. You were such an amazing little girl, you touched many lives around you. Words can’t explain how much you are loved. I think of you every day angel, I love you so much sweet girl! Look after your momma and daddy for us, they love you so much.
JG says
Please accept my very sincere sympathy for such an especially sad loss. To lose a baby is beyond my comprehension; your pain must be immeasurable. I know that there are no words that I can say to take away your pain, but please take comfort in the account found at Luke 8:49-56. There we are given the real life account of Jesus resurrecting a young girl back to the arms of her parents. We are promised that same type of resurrection. (John 5:28,29) Although your time with Kennedy was far too short, you can have the hope of being reunited with your baby girl forever, under perfect circumstances. (Revelation 21:4) In the meantime, even though the pain may at times seem insurmountable, rest assured that God will give you the strength necessary to endure. (Psalm 94:17-19) Please accept my deepest sympathy and sincerest condolences.
Jerry Olson says
Baby Kennedy, the amount of pride and joy you brought your parents will never be forgotten. Your Mommy posted pictures of you everyday on IG and that was the only connection I had with you. I was looking forward to telling you stories of your Daddy and all the goofy things we did together. You will forever have a positive effect on him, he is a great man who loves you unconditionally. Watch over your parents, keep the safe and give them strength. They are great people who impact everyone they meet in a very positive way. God bless.
Great Aunt Bonnie says
Baby Kennedy, oh how proud you made mommy and daddy. What a blessing you were to them. So sad that your life here on earth was all too short., but so amazing how your short life impacted everyone who knew you. Your smile melted my heart. Give my grand baby Amber a hug and kiss along with all the other loved ones that were there to meet you. Don’t forget to send angel kisses to mommy and daddy and grandpa and gramma from time to time to let them know you are ok. Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”
Tracy Hanel says
I did not personally know Kennedy Grace, or her parents…. but i am a prayer warrior and when i learned from this perfect child of God went into the loving arms of her savior I knew from personal experience how much pain and suffering her mommy and daddy would experience. May it give you peace Jyndia and Shawn to know sweet Kennedy Grace now has eternal ilfe….and her life and impact on so many was perfect joy and happiness. She knew nothing but unconditional love and grace. In the days to come may your faith be strong….this little angel has left a mark on even those who never met her. How special is that!! Prayers continue . God is good. Kennedy Grace is in good hands. One of my favorite childrens hyms is I am Jesus little lamb. One of the verses goes like this…. and when my short life is ended…. by his angel host attended… he shall fold me to his breast… there within his arms to rest. That sounds oerfect Kennedy Grace! Living with God…. and in our hearts forever.
Gramma Kim says
Kennedy Grace-
Words can not express how much I miss and love you! Your smile will always brighten my day and I will forever miss our cuddle sessions. Your sweet little laugh will encircle my heart endlessly and forever. I miss you and if I could’ve taken your place I would’ve in a heartbeat and all my tears will not bring you back. We will all be strong for your mom and dad who love you very much and will forever grieve your loss. I miss you sweetie and look forward to seeing your cute little face again. Love you always, Gramma Kim.
Joelene Goodover says
Dear Shawn and Jynda,
I am so saddened to hear of the physical loss of your beautiful and charming Kennedy! What a gift and treasure she was in your lifes and I know she will remain in your hearts forever.
You both are in my prayers.
Bob & Susie Ruff says
Dear Shawn & Jyndia,
Our hearts are broken for the loss of your precious Kennedy Grace. Please know, you and
your family are in our prayers.
Tom Kotynski says
Our deepest thoughts and sympathies to you and your wife, Shawn. This is a grevious loss and we share your sorrow.
Grandpa Jim Schabile says
I was so lucky to have spent some good times watching Baby K while her Momma and Daddy worked. She and I had hours of playing with her toys, rolling around on the floor, struggling to change her diapers and sleeping on my chest. As we played she showed me signs of a very bright future. She could figure out how to get at her toys and would never give up a struggle to get her favorite. She demonstrated inquisitiveness and tenacity much the same way her Mother did as we raised her. We can only image what wonderful things Kennedy would have accomplished, but it is certain that she will be smiling and greeting people in heaven like she did in her brief beautiful earthly moments. Leaving us at such a young age has left a hole in my heart that will be filled with memories we had together. I will love you forever, Baby K.
Jan Dodds says
You are in my thought and prayers. There are no words, I am so sorry
Jane Gregoire says
Shawn and Jyndia,
My heart breaks for you. Until you see Kennedy again, may your faith and your memories sustain you.
A Grandmother says
SYMPATHY QUILT
If only warm thoughts and gentle words
could be sewen together
I would gather all I could find
and create a quilt of comfort
that would keep you from the sarrows cold.
Kathleen says
Glenna and family,
If I could sew a quilt to comfort you, it would be wrapped around you several times. God bless you and watch over you!
angela massie says
Jyndia-with ur husband. I was so sad to hear today at therapy that your sweet baby went to heaven. Can’t imagine the pain and empty arms of losing a one of my own! Jyndia-with u were my husband Shane’s therapist at OHSU for 6+ months. We miss u!!!!!!! May God comfort u in the days ahead. Angela Massie
Francy McAllister says
Shawn and Jynda,
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious darling! I can’t imagine your pain. You’re all in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. What a beautiful tribute you wrote of Kennedy! May your loving memories help in healing. God bless.
Love to all,
Francy McAllister
Sandra Hershey says
Shawn and Jynda I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful Kennedy.May God give you a peace that surpasses all understanding.May he give you comfort and grace.In Christ’s love,Sandra
Bev says
Kim and family….. So very, very sorry for your loss….
Deb Green says
Jyndia and Shawn I am praying for your hurting hearts. Your precious little angel touched so many lives in the short time she was here. I pray comfort and peace for you both in the days ahead. So thankful that you have such a strong faith. Remember that God is walking thru this time with you and carrying you. When we are weak – He is strong. Jyndia – your MOPS family loved Kennedy and are here for you. Love and Prayers – Deb G
Eileen Pettigrew says
My heart is breaking for you. I continue to pray that you may find comfort in your memories & the love of your families.
Jacque Treaster says
Shawn and Jyndia, we only met you and sweet Kennedy one time at Thanksgiving last year, and your little girl left quite the impression on us. I remember her keeping the whole table laughing the entire evening, and everyone agreed that it was impossible to not just absolutely adore that beautiful baby. We are thinking of you and your family, and we hope you find some peace during this devastating time.
Jennie spragg says
Kennedy I will truly miss sharing the football bleachers with you and your mommy. Our hearts go out to for your incomprehensible loss. The Spragg family.
Bonni Quist says
I never got the privilege of meeting little Kennedy but I have a feeling she was a lot like her mother and I do have wonderful memories of you, Jyndia, playing at Sweetwater Ranch and the sound of your laughter still echoes in the memories of the past. Anyone can tell by looking at the photos what a precious child she was – so full of acceptance and joy. Shawn and Jyndia, rest in the knowledge that you were amazing parents and gave your little angel all the love that she could absorb in her short time on earth. She will be waiting for you – my heart breaks for you both and the Quists send their love to you and all your extended family who are feeling such pain at the loss. See you at the Memorial.
Caroline Rosling says
Kennedy Grace, you will forever be missed by everyone. Seeing you across the gym floor with you adorable pink headphones always brought a smile to my face, and I’m sure many others. You were the sweetest little girl I had the chance to meet. Your dad would always show everyone the newest pictures of you and show you off, and I would look forward to it every day. You were taken to too soon, but heaven gained a perfect little angel. I know that your mom and Dad loved you so much and were the luckiest parents. Your facial expressions and beautiful personality will be missed dearly. I think of you and and you family everyday and they are in my prayers. Love and miss you so much Kenni G.